Should local film festivals shift focus from traditional theater screenings to online streaming platforms?

08 Eyl 18:45

I'm curious how we feel about the growing trend of local film festivals offering their line‑up online instead of, or in addition to, the usual in‑person screenings. On one hand, streaming can reach a wider audience, especially people who can't travel to the venue, and it creates a permanent digital archive. On the other hand, the communal experience of watching a film together in a small theater is hard to replicate, and it may affect local businesses that rely on festival traffic. What do you think works best for supporting local filmmakers and preserving that shared atmosphere? Share your thoughts!